Research: Developing the skills to get to Net Zero
Helping industry and the public sector understand and develop the skills needed to reduce carbon emissions to net zero in the North West.
Summary
Research summary
We are working with an industry-led partnership of academics, businesses and political leaders on North West England’s plan for industrial decarbonisation.
Net Zero North West was set up to get the region to net zero carbon emissions by 2040, and we are helping industry and local communities identify and develop the skills to support the change.
Our initial analysis showed employers and regional authorities do not fully understand the skills required to reach the target. They will need support from further and higher education providers, politicians and regions all working together.
We also discovered barriers, requirements for skills and opportunities for employers and their workers.
During the initial phase of the work, we asked participants:
- What skills are needed to get to net zero? What are the gaps?
- What are the barriers?
- What are the enablers?
The answers formed part of a qualitative analysis, the outputs of which will move the project in to its second phase and become a call for more collaborative action.
Reforms to the UK skills system were set out in the Government’s Skills for Jobs white paper and are referenced in the Green Jobs Taskforce report. They put employers at the centre of the technical education system.
The UK is the first major economy to legislate to end its contribution to climate change by 2050. It has published a 10 point plan for a green industrial revolution, covering sweeping reforms to energy, transport and industry.
Statistic
Research impact
Our researchers are working on an analysis of the skills gap that needs to be closed in the North West to get to net zero emissions.
The report will cover best practice and highlight the areas that require immediate focus and reform.
We will also bring together organisations that can help refocus the training skills agenda.
Sustainable development goals
Climate action
Promoting mechanisms for raising capacity for effective climate change-related planning and management
Responsible consuming and producing
By 2030, ensuring that people everywhere have the relevant information and awareness for sustainable development and lifestyles in harmony with nature
Partnership for the goals
Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.
Team
Research team
Lead researchers
Co-researchers
Contact
Contact us
For general enquiries about our Net Zero and Low Carbon Futures research group, you can contact its lead Dr Paul Hooper.
